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WHAT IS AN ENERGY AUDIT
An energy audit is the first step to assess how much energy your home or business consumes and to evaluate what measures you can take your home or business more energy efficient, by performing a room by room examination of a structure as well as a thorough examination of past utility bills. An audit will show you problems that may, when corrected, save you significant amounts of money over time. During the audit, you can pinpoint where you are losing energy. Audits also determine the efficiency of the heating and cooling systems. An audit may also show you ways to conserve hot water and electricity.
At Golden State Energy Consultants, we use a variety of techniques and equipment to determine the energy efficiency of a structure. Thorough audits often use equipment such as blower doors, which measure the extent of leaks in the building envelope, and infrared cameras, which reveal hard-to-detect areas of air infiltration and missing insulation.
PREPARING FOR AN ENERGY AUDIT
Before the energy auditor visits your house or office make a list of any existing problems such as condensation
and uncomfortable or drafty rooms. Have copies or a summary of your yearly energy bills. (Your utility can get these for you.) Auditors use this information to establish what to look for during the audit. The auditor first examines the outside of the home or office to determine the size of the structure and its features (i.e., wall area, number and size
of windows). The auditor then will analyze the occupants behavior.
- Is anyone home during working hours?
- What is the average thermostat setting for summer and winter?
- How many people live or work here?
- Is every room in use?
Your answers may help uncover some simple ways to reduce your home or office energy consumption. Be sure to walk through with the auditor as they work, and ask questions.
When Should You Have a Home Energy Audit Performed?
Here are the Top Ten Reasons that every homeowner should keep in mind:
When should you have a home energy audit performed?
- Before you sell your home
- Before you buy a home
- Before installing solar or renewable energy systems
- Before replacing your heating or AC system
- Before you renovate your home
Why a home energy audit?
- In order to increase your home’s value
- To lower utility bills for the life of your home
- If your home has comfort issues
- If there are ventilation or health problems
- If you wish to improve the environment
Let an independent energy consultant at Golden State Energy Consultants guide you toward optimizing your homes energy issues should any of these situations apply to you. Contact Us
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The Top Ten New Years Resolutions most people share
Every year it seems that the same Top Ten New Year resolutions crop up. Why? It's obvious. Because they're just so hard to keep! I have trouble keeping my resolutions, but this time I'm determined to finally do better.
Success is not an accident, it begins with a well-conceived plan. You can and will achieve more in the next year than you have in the past ten with a disciplined plan of action. By investing your efforts into a New Years Resolution, you give yourself a launch pad for starting your new year and your new life.
This year I'm determined to try harder and I plan to succeed. The only two resolutions listed below that I was able to keep in 2009, were to organise myself and to get more exercise.At least I made a great improvement over my 2008 attempts. As for smoking, I hope that you have better luck than I do!
My list includes many of the items listed below, but this Lens is not about my New Years Resolutions, but the Top Ten Resolutions. Here's the list.
- 1. Stop smoking
- 2. Get Fit
- 3. Lose Weight
- 4. Enjoy Life More
- 5. Quit Drinking
- 6. Get Organised
- 7. Learn Something New
- 8. Get Out of Debt
- 9. Spend more time with the Family
- 10. Help Others
So, that's the Top Ten New Years Resolutions. Write them down and see how successful you are at keeping them. I hope that you have more success than I've had in my resolutions over the years. Happy New Year!
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com
1. What does your inspection cover?
The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will meet all applicable requirements in your state if applicable and will comply with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You should be able to request and see a copy of these items ahead of time and ask any questions you may have. If there are any areas you want to make sure are inspected, be sure to identify them upfront.
2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?
The inspector should be able to provide his or her history in the profession and perhaps even a few names as referrals. Newer inspectors can be very qualified, and many work with a partner or have access to more experienced inspectors to assist them in the inspection.
3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?
Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection. If the inspection is for a commercial property, then this should be asked about as well. Also, ask what kind of specialized equipment they use or services they provide such as infrared scanning, mold testing, energy audits etc.
4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?
Some inspector associations and state regulations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in the inspection. Other associations and regulations strictly forbid this as a conflict of interest.
5. How long will the inspection take?
The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is one and a half to three hours for a typical single-family house; anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection. Additional inspectors may be brought in for very large properties and buildings.
6. How much will it cost?
Costs vary dramatically, depending on the region, size and age of the house, scope of services and other factors. A typical range might be $300-$500, but consider the value of the home inspection in terms of the investment being made. An inexpensive or discounted home inspection may not be the "deal" it appears as it may reflect the experience, knowledge or quality of the home inspector.
7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?
Ask to see samples and determine whether or not you can understand the inspector's reporting style and if the time parameters fulfill your needs. A Good inspector will provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection. Is a guarantee or warranty included with the inspection report?
8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?
This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up this opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.
9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?
There are many state and national associations for home inspectors. Request to see their membership ID, and perform whatever due diligence you deem appropriate. A home inspector who also holds a State issued contractors license is a plus as you can be assured of their knowledge and be able to perform a background check of their prior business activity.
10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?
One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his or her professionalism and service to the consumer. This is especially important in cases where the home is much older or includes unique elements requiring additional or updated training.
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com
What are the signs your house might have the potentially toxic imported Chinese dry wall?
* First the house was built or remodeled between 2005 and 2008
* The house has a strong or noticeable smell of sulphur or rotten eggs.
* The home has experienced repeated air conditioning coil issues or corrosion
* The home's occupants have experienced upper respiratory issues, nose bleeds, or other medical issues.
* Young children or senior citizens may be the first to show signs of exposure to a home with the imported Chinese dry wall.
It seems most of the affected homes are in the Southeast and Western United States.
"There is no longer a question of if the Chinese dry wall is a problem, the question now is just how bad is it going to get," according to Americas Watchdog. "If you live in a any US home, or condominium built between 2005 & 2006, that has a sulfur, or rotten egg type smell, we want to hear from you as soon as possible at 866-714-6466, or contact us via our web site at http://HomeownersConsumerCenter.com."
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com
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Avoid renegotiations, delays and lost sales
One of the most frustrating aspects of selling a house is when a problem turns up on the physical inspection. Depending on the severity of the problem, it can lead to a new round of negotiations, delay your escrow, or even ruin your sale. List your house knowing that there won't be any surprises. And if you are buying another house on contingency, having your house pre-inspected gives you more negotiating power. The seller of the house you want to buy will feel better knowing your house will have a clean inspection, and shouldn't delay your purchase.
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Regardless of how a home looks on the outside, there may be underlying issues that need to be identified. A home inspection and home inspection reports or home inspection list can protect the seller. Problems may develop over time which can go un-noticed by even the most meticulous homeowner. Unfortunately these issues can lead to delays, unhappy buyers or even lawsuits after the sale.
Eventually your buyers are going to conduct an inspection. You may as well know what they are going to find by getting there first.
-It allows you to see your home through the eyes of a critical third-party.
-It helps you to price your home realistically.
-It permits you to make repairs ahead of time so that ...
a. Defects won't become negotiating stumbling blocks later.
b. There is no delay in obtaining the Use and Occupancy permit.
c. You have the time to get reasonably priced contractors or make the repairs yourself, if qualified.
-It may encourage the buyer to waive the inspection contingency.
-It may alert you of items of immediate personal concern, such as radon gas or active termite infestation.
-It may relieve prospect's concerns and suspicions.
-It reduces your liability by adding professional supporting documentation to your disclosure statement.
-It may alert you to immediate safety issues before agents and visitors tour your home.
The Real Estate Disclosure law in California state:
"In a sale of real property with one to four dwelling units (or a manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18007), the listing and selling brokers must each conduct a reasonably competent and diligent visual inspection of the property and disclose to the prospective buyer all material facts affecting the value, desirability, and intended use of the property." Click here to go to the State of California Department of Real Estate Disclosure page.
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com
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Avoid renegotiations, delays and lost sales
One of the most frustrating aspects of selling a house is when a problem turns up on the physical inspection. Depending on the severity of the problem, it can lead to a new round of negotiations, delay your escrow, or even ruin your sale. List your house knowing that there won't be any surprises. And if you are buying another house on contingency, having your house pre-inspected gives you more negotiating power. The seller of the house you want to buy will feel better knowing your house will have a clean inspection, and shouldn't delay your purchase.
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Regardless of how a home looks on the outside, there may be underlying issues that need to be identified. A home inspection and home inspection reports or home inspection list can protect the seller. Problems may develop over time which can go un-noticed by even the most meticulous homeowner. Unfortunately these issues can lead to delays, unhappy buyers or even lawsuits after the sale.
Eventually your buyers are going to conduct an inspection. You may as well know what they are going to find by getting there first.
-It allows you to see your home through the eyes of a critical third-party.
-It helps you to price your home realistically.
-It permits you to make repairs ahead of time so that ...
a. Defects won't become negotiating stumbling blocks later.
b. There is no delay in obtaining the Use and Occupancy permit.
c. You have the time to get reasonably priced contractors or make the repairs yourself, if qualified.
-It may encourage the buyer to waive the inspection contingency.
-It may alert you of items of immediate personal concern, such as radon gas or active termite infestation.
-It may relieve prospect's concerns and suspicions.
-It reduces your liability by adding professional supporting documentation to your disclosure statement.
-It may alert you to immediate safety issues before agents and visitors tour your home.
The Real Estate Disclosure law in California state:
"In a sale of real property with one to four dwelling units (or a manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18007), the listing and selling brokers must each conduct a reasonably competent and diligent visual inspection of the property and disclose to the prospective buyer all material facts affecting the value, desirability, and intended use of the property." Click here to go to the State of California Department of Real Estate Disclosure page.
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com |
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Mold Inspection
National media attention has alerted the public to the destructive and possibly toxic dangers of hidden mold spores that could affect their family's health and their homes. You owe it to yourself to minimize your exposure to mold spores in the indoor environment, become informed!
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Q: What is toxic mold?
A: It is when commonly occurring molds that produce toxins are found in excessive amounts indoors and produce concentrated amounts of toxins that can be harmful to your health.
Q: How does someone know if mold in their home is toxic?
A: Consult a professional that is trained to locate and gather both physical and airborne samples. Then have a microbiology lab process and review samples to determine the type of mold's and amounts.
Q: Why is toxic mold so common?
A: Most cases are due to building defects or undetected leaks that create moist conditions which are perfect for mold growth
Q: Why is toxic mold such a big deal if its always been here?
A: Modern advances in science have discovered that exposure to toxic molds can be hazardous to some individuals.
Q: Is everyone at risk?
A: No. Commonly affected are small children and people with allergies and respiratory conditions.
Q: What do we do if we find toxic mold and how do we get rid of it?
A: Consult a professional extraction company specifically trained to extract visible and unseen airborne mold.
Q: How much does it cost to remove mold?
A: Each situation is different. It depends on the severity of the mold problem. The cost can be into the thousands. In some cases removal is covered by homeowners insurance.
Q: How do we know if the toxic mold is gone?
A: Mold Inspection and Re- Mold testing are performed typically by the same person.
Q: How long does all of this take?
A: Testing and extraction can in most cases be completed within the escrow period.
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com |
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Moisture is the most destructive force
Of all of the defects we look for in a home inspection. This is why moisture detection is so important. Moisture is always the one that causes the most concern. Moisture is one of the worst enemies your home can have. It can cause your clothes and furnishings to mildew, ruin interior surfaces, reduce the insulating value of your insulation, cause squeaky floors and nail popping, cause paint peeling and stains on the walls and ceilings, and can ruin the structural frame of your house through fungus growth and rot.
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Moisture detection levels in a home depend on a variety of different factors such as lifestyle (showering, cooking, heating and cooling), number of occupants, leaks and ground/atmospheric moisture. Moisture wants to move from areas of high vapor pressure to areas of low vapor pressure. Vapor pressure is the pressure exerted by water molecules in a mixture of air. When a home is being heated, moisture wants to move outside, and when it is being air-conditioned, moisture wants to move inside.
Since Sacramento's climate is generally dry, moisture in homes is usually caused by plumbing problems or building envelope (roof, window and wall) failures. The most destructive leaks are the slow leaks that go unnoticed for a long time. These can occur under sinks, behind dishwashers and refrigerators, and in bathrooms, or long term exposure to sprinklers. This creates a perfect environment for bacterial growth. While not all mold is toxic, it can lead to musty odors, deterioration of the house, and aggravate people with allergies.
Moisture in building materials can destroy structural integrity and nurture mold. The first step in a moisture problem remediation is to quickly and accurately locate through moisture detection and remove all sources of moisture. Infrared cameras can show you what's wet and what's dry by highlighting differences in temperature due to thermal mass variations. IR cameras can help find the ultimate source with little or no physical disassembly of the premises and minimal disturbance of inhabitants.
What can you do to control moisture?
Bathroom vents can remove excess moisture from showers and baths. Often people do not use the bathroom fan because it is noisy, or they don't want to let it run while they are gone from the house. We recommend using it! If not, leave the door open when you are done. Closing the door traps moisture in you bathroom which can cause a lot of problems. One great solution is to install a timer switch to control the fan after you exit the bathroom.
Kitchen vents, if vented to the outside, can remove excess moisture from cooking. Range hood fans that vent back into the room can remove smoke and odor by passing the exhaust through a filter, but they do not remove moisture from steam. If your house or condo is small, and you have a recirculating vent (one that blows back into the kitchen), be sure to leave a window open.
Clothes dryers that are not vented properly can produce large amounts of moisture in a house or garage. We recommend that you do not use a lint trap. These are considered a fire hazard, and they allow lots of warm, moist air into you house or garage. Even if your dryer vents to the outside, periodically check the duct for obstructions or built-up lint. This is a fire hazard, and can lead to blockage which will force the dryer to vent into the house.
Ventilation of your garage, crawlspace and attic are a must. Do not block the vents in your garage. There are several reasons for this. In many houses the furnace, water heater, and washer and dryer are located in the garage. These all create heat in addition to parking a car in the garage. If there is evidence of moisture present you can create a perfect environment for mold. Be sure you have enough ventilation for your crawlspace and attic. The general rule is that you should have one square foot of ventilation of every 150 square feet of crawlspace or attic space. If you have had a room addition added to your house, be sure proper ventilation was installed.
Another big help in avoiding moisture problems is drainage, both around and under the house. This includes rain gutters and proper grading which direct water away from the structure. Good drainage will get rid of surface water and high ground water before they become a moisture problem. If you house has a raised foundation, consider installing a vapor barrier on top of the dirt.
Many homeowners will experience high humidity conditions in a new home the first year it is occupied. One reason for this is the amount of water that is present in the paint, plaster, concrete and other building materials. This moisture must be evaporated before the house thoroughly dries out. This problem usually corrects itself after the first year. If it does not and moisture problems persist, look for other causes of moisture problems and then correct them.
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
800-441-0804
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com |
Helpful Information When Making Appointment
- Address of property to be inspected
- Buyers contact information (including e-mail & cell phone)
- Agent's contact information
- Approximate age of the home
- Description of the home (size, floors, bathrooms)
- Unique Features (second kitchen, basement, etc)
- Access to property (keys, access codes, alarm codes)
- Status of utilities (on or off)
- What you want inspected besides the house (barn, guest house, pool, etc.)
REMEMBER: The inspector is working for you. Please feel free to ask questions.
Craig Iden
Golden State Home Inspections
www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com
800-441-0804
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| Preparing Your Furnace For Winter |
Regular maintenance along with periodic checkups by a licensed heating professional are essential for continued safe and efficient operation of your furnace. But don't wait until the first cold snap hits to make sure your furnace is ready for winter.
Here are some simple steps you can perform, plus some things you can ask your contractor to do, to make sure your natural gas furnace will keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.
1. Clean or replace the filter.
A clogged filter resticts the flow of heated air from your furnace, causing it to work harder and deliver less heat.
2. Check the blower belt and oil the blower motor.
Loose belts can increase furnace operating time. Replace frayed or cracked belts. Two or three drops of oil in the motor will keep it running smoothly. (Sealed blower motors require no lubrication. If you have questions, check your owner's manual or call a heating professional.)
3. Make sure blower doors are replaced properly.
This keeps combustion byproducts such as carbon monoxide seperate from the warm air circulated through your home.
4. Check to see that vents in the house are unobstructed.
Air in your home needs to circulate easily through the vents. Your furnace works less when heated air is not blocked and the cooler air can circulate back freely.
5. Check to see that the exhaust flue to the outside is clear of obstructions and in good condition from the furnace to the roof cap with all connections securely fastened.
You can check it by removing the flue cap near the furnace and water heater and looking through the flue to the outside. Make sure you replace the flue cap securely. If the furnace or water heater are in an enclosed room or closet, make sure they get plenty of air. These appliances need ten cubic feet of air for one cubic foot of natural gas to operate properly. Furnace rooms or closets should have door louvers or vents or a duct directly to the outside to provide sufficient combustion air.
6. Remove all flammable objects from around your furnace and water heater.
Boxes, clothes, paints, aerosols, gasoline, motorized yard tools, and any other flammable products should not be stored near the furnace or water heater.
(Remember, if you would like to schedule a home inspection or have any questions, please call us at 800-441-0804 or visit our website at www.goldenstatehomeinspections.com )
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Craig Iden
Sacramento,
CA
More about me…
Golden State Home Inspections
Address: P.O. Box 658, Folsom, Ca, 95630
Office Phone: (800) 441-0804
Cell Phone: (916) 813-2761
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